I need Rotary speeds explained please

[ALLMAN BROS FAN]

Hey guys ..... I've had a "ATD" brand rotary buffer for quite along time,I'm beginning to use it some and I need to know how can I tell how many rpms it's turning per number on the speed control. Someone please teach me something, OK?

[Superior Shine]

Re: I need Rotary speeds explained please

Don't over think this. Knowing the actual RPMs isn't that important. You want the machine set were you can polish effectively. I adjust speed depending on the defect I am attempting to (or not) correct, type of paint, paint temp, pad type, shape or contours in the body. Basically you want to run where you can control the machine, do a good job comfortably and not damage anything.

[Murr1525]

Re: I need Rotary speeds explained please

Are you practicing on a scrap hood/trunk/door, old car, etc?

[ALLMAN BROS FAN]

Re: I need Rotary speeds explained please

This going to sound so weird to you .....but here goes. When I was somewhere around 22 yrs old I had gotten good enough with a high speed buffer to make the payments on my first new "GRAN TORINO" exactly like the one in the Clint Eastwood Movie. But....do the math....and you will see that was a long time ago and I have forgotten so very much about those days so I kind of need to relearn this machine again. I had a very light touch back in the day of mostly single stage paints and did quiet good with the old type wool pad. Now...... I'm afraid I'm going to burn through the clear coat.
I just need to know some does and do nots about the machine.

[Patriot_detailer]

Re: I need Rotary speeds explained please

If you are looking at the same buffer that I am the speed control is labeled 1-2-3-4 given the minimum speed setting is 1000rpm and the maximum is 3000 # 2 should be somewhere about 1700 rpm and #3 2400 rpm. I don't know this to be factual but a think it is a fair assumption. I hope this helps.